Sleep Apnea Symptoms
& Your Health in Texas
Effective Solutions for Sleep Apnea
Do you struggle with loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or other sleep-related issues? You may be experiencing sleep apnea, a serious condition that can negatively impact your health and relationships.
At Texas Dental Sleep Services, our providers specialize in treating sleep apnea and helping patients get the rest they need. Learn more about how sleep apnea can affect your health.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea, and its symptoms often include loud and excessive snoring. However, not all patients who snore suffer from the disorder. Additional symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Gasping for air at night
- Irritability
- Lack of energy
- Reduced libido
- Frequent urination at night
- Insomnia
- Excessive daytime fatigue
- Morning headaches, dry mouth, or a sore throat
- Impaired memory
If you’re experiencing one or more symptoms, schedule your consultation with one of our sleep dentists in your area to get the treatment you need.
Risk Factors of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can affect anyone regardless of age or gender, but there are several common risk factors:
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Being overweight or obese
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Nasal congestion
- Large neck circumference
- A narrow airway
- Pregnancy
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Health
Leaving sleep apnea untreated can be detrimental to your physical and mental health in the long run. The disorder can cause a significant reduction in your oxygen levels, impacting your ability to function and restore yourself with sleep.
A lack of uninterrupted sleep weakens your immune system, making you more vulnerable to diseases and infections. Sleep apnea can also increase your risk of serious health problems, such as:
- Strokes
- Heart attacks
- Diabetes
- Anxiety
- Depression
- PTSD
Frequently Asked Questions
There are two main types of sleep apnea — obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). The most common form, OSA, occurs when a blockage in the airway prevents you from breathing properly. This causes you to repeatedly wake up and gasp for air throughout the night. OSA can be the result of weakened or inflamed throat muscles, or soft tissue falling to the back of your throat.
CSA is a less common disorder. Episodes of this condition occur when your brain doesn’t properly signal your body to regulate your breathing during sleep. The symptoms of CSA are similar to OSA, but additional symptoms include chest pain and shortness of breath.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with a sleep dentist. They can evaluate your symptoms, assess your health, and determine if a sleep study is necessary. Once you receive a diagnosis, they’ll discuss treatment options and help you determine the best solution for your case.
Yes! A sleep study, also called polysomnography, is the only way to properly diagnose sleep disorders like sleep apnea. If you’re exhibiting symptoms of sleep apnea, like fatigue and daytime sleepiness, your doctor will likely suggest a sleep study.
The test uses a non-invasive monitor to measure disruptions in your sleep pattern, including oxygen levels, heart rate, breathing, snoring, body activity, and eye movements.
Making certain lifestyle changes can be beneficial in reducing sleep apnea symptoms when combined with professional treatment. Some effective natural remedies include:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Regular exercise — yoga specifically promotes oxygen flow
- Change your sleep position, also referred to as positional therapy
- Use a humidifier to open your airways
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol consumption
Discover Effective Solutions in Texas
At Texas Dental Sleep Services, our sleep specialists work with you to determine a treatment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle. Contact our office at (214) 272-0770 or simply fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. Or find a doctor in your area.
We treat patients in our offices, as well as at nursing homes, assisted living centers, and retirement communities in our four main centers: Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, and the Valley (McAllen). We look forward to seeing you soon!
